What are conchotomy and conchoplasty?
The nasal conchae (turbinates) are small bony structures covered by mucous membrane. They warm, humidify, and filter the air with every breath. When the conchae become chronically enlarged, the nasal passages narrow and breathing through the nose becomes difficult.
Conchotomy is the partial or complete removal of an enlarged concha. Conchoplasty is a gentler option, in which the surgeon reduces the volume of tissue while preserving the mucous membrane of the concha.
Causes of impaired nasal breathing
Impaired breathing through the nose can be related to enlargement of the conchae. The main reasons for consulting an ENT surgeon include:
- chronic allergic or vasomotor rhinitis;
- deviated nasal septum, causing compensatory enlargement of the concha;
- prolonged use of decongestant nasal drops;
- chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses;
- unfavorable environmental conditions — dust, dry air, pollution.
Please note! Conservative treatment — hormonal sprays, antihistamines, saline rinses — helps in the early stages. If symptoms persist, the doctor considers surgical treatment.
When is surgery on the nasal conchae needed?
The indication for surgery is chronic nasal congestion that persists for more than three months despite adequate medication. Additional indications: nighttime snoring and sleep apnea, constant mouth breathing, and recurrent sinusitis.
Conchotomy and conchoplasty are often performed together with other ENT operations. For sinus involvement, Helyos Medical Center uses endoscopic surgical treatment.
How is nasal concha surgery performed?
The surgical intervention is performed endoscopically — through the nasal passages, without incisions on the skin. The patient usually goes home on the day of surgery.
Procedure parameters:
- anesthesia — local or general;
- duration — 15–40 minutes;
- hospitalization — outpatient basis or 1 day;
- return to work — after 2–5 days;
- full recovery — 4–6 weeks.
For involvement of the sphenoid sinus, conchoplasty may be combined with endoscopic sphenoidotomy.
Results and recovery after surgery
In the first days after surgery, nasal congestion and moderate discomfort are possible. Most patients notice improved breathing within 1–2 weeks, as swelling subsides. Full recovery takes 4–6 weeks.
Important! During rehabilitation, the nose must be rinsed with saline solutions, and physical exertion and overheating should be avoided.
If endoscopic ethmoidotomy was performed at the same time as conchoplasty, the recovery period may be slightly longer. The price of treatment and the rehabilitation plan are discussed at the consultation.
Advantages of treatment at Helyos Medical Center
Helyos Medical Center provides a full cycle of ENT care in one place. A modern diagnostic center with CT and endoscopic equipment allows the cause of breathing problems to be accurately identified and an effective treatment method selected.
Operations are performed by experienced surgeons according to modern treatment protocols. To book an appointment and find out how much the operation costs, call +380670000150 or use the online form on the website.
